In selecting the location for the 2014 Symposium, Master Yang Jun considered access to transportation, practice facilities, cost and climate. Local support from the community and proximity to a Yang Chengfu Tai Chi Chuan Center were important factors in the selection of the location. Consideration of these factors led to the decision to choose Louisville, Kentucky as the site for the Symposium. When approached with the proposal to be the host city for the Symposium, Mayor Greg Fischer expressed his personal enthusiasm and pledged the support of the community.
Mayor Fischer met with Master Yang Jun and Fang Hong in December, 2012 where he presented Master Yang with a “key to the city” to show his appreciation of what the Yang Family Tai Chi Chuan Foundation and the Symposium means to the advancement of health in the world community.
Louisville is centrally located, within a one-day’s drive for nearly half of the US population. Developed as a major shipping port along the Ohio River, it features a vibrant arts scene, an expansive riverfront park as well as one of the nation’s largest urban park systems. Louisville is a balanced blend of laid-back Southern hospitality, combining a rich historical and modern art scene, unique and lively entertainment and some of the best dining available anywhere. Famous for Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby, Louisville is also home to Kentucky Fried Chicken, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, and Muhammad Ali. The site of the 2014 Symposium is within walking distance to Fourth Street Live, Louisville’s premier entertainment district, museums, and some of the best hotels and dining to fit every taste and budget. Three major Interstate highways and the Louisville International Airport with over 100 flights daily make travel to and from the city accessible for all travelling to the Symposium.
Spalding University is the site of the Symposium. It features dining, residence halls, gymnasiums, classrooms and auditorium all within a five-minute walk. Spalding is an urban, co-educational institution offering more than twenty-four degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral level. It provides quality, real world learning in liberal and professional studies to over 2500 students. Originally founded in 1814 by the Sisters of Charity of the Nazareth, Spalding is one of the most historic institutions of higher education in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The campus is nestled between the primary business and entertainment districts of the city and the charming neighborhood of Old Louisville, proudly displaying its elegant Victorian mansions of a bygone era.
Spalding University offers Symposium attendees the option of staying in newly renovated residence rooms on campus. Two and four bedroom suites are available with individual bathrooms, living and kitchen spaces. The Masters workshops will take place in gymnasiums located in Spalding University Center.
GROUND TRANSPORTATION
To arrange transportation from the Louisville International Airport contact the following taxi services:
Ready Cab…………………….(502) 417-4406
Yellow Cab…………………….(502) 636-5511
Courtesy Vans……………….Many area hotels provide free phone service for reservations and courtesy service to and from the airport. The Reservation Center calling board is located in the lower level of the airport next to the Information Booth.
ARRIVE EARLY/STAY LATE
Tour Louisville:
During check-in, information provided by the Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau will be available on tours in and around Louisville as well as attraction information for all of Kentucky. Symposium attendees can arrange tours for themselves or for family members that accompany them. Special tours can also be arranged.
July 4th Weekend, 2014
Hailed as one of the best fireworks displays in the nation, the Louisville 4th of July Celebration is a marvel to behold. Symposium attendees can arrive a few days early to participate in the festivities.